Experience
James' practice is concerned with the provision of advice, assistance and representation in relation to safe systems of work, policies, incident investigation and reporting, representation at PACE interviews, inquests, enforcement notice appeals and defending criminal proceedings.He is frequently instructed in relation to matters of a most serious and highly complex nature by a diverse client base from the high hazard industries with a regional, national or global footprint.
James enjoys a successful track record of defending clients investigated and prosecuted by enforcement authorities, including notable successes against the Health and Safety Executive.
Memberships
Health and Safety Lawyers Association (HSLA)
Recent Cases
- R v Formula One Management Ltd (2018) – discontinuance of prosecution by the HSE on a charge under s.3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.
- R v Head 4 Heights Ltd (2017) - successful defence of a high ropes course operator prosecuted for contraventions of s.3(1) HSWA and reg.3(1) MHSWR. The case posed a significant challenge to custom and practice in the high ropes course industry.
- R v C.Ro Ports London Ltd [2016] EWCA Crim 1589 - Successful appeal against a fine of £1.8m for contravention of s.2(1) HSWA achieving a reduction of £1.3m.
Testimonials
James has been ranked in Chambers and Partners as a leading lawyer for Health & Safety: London & UK-wide. Comments made about James include:
"He is very good during the course of a trial, very flexible and able to recognise the need to manoeuvre tactically depending on how things are going."
“Well-schooled, good at the detail and a good presence in court. He doesn't lie down, he's very tough when he needs to be and good at strategy.”
"Some extraordinarily good experience" and “a growing profile for both compliance and contentious work.”
James has also been recommended in the Legal 500 UK for Health and Safety.